The Social Integration of Israeli-Muslim-Arabs

Two million Arab-Muslims live as citizens in Israel, where their ethnic and religious group identity conflicts with the state. Religion wields significant social influence in identity conflicts, particularly in the Palestinian-Israeli dispute involving traditional societies contesting sacred territory. For Israeli Arabs, religious-legal principles and moral values can cause separation from the Muslim side and discrimination from the Jewish side. This article examines diverse perspectives of Jewish and Muslim religious leaders regarding three central issues affecting Jewish-Muslim coexistence in Israel: real estate transactions, shared employment and commerce, and intermarriage. The analysis explores the relationship between nationalism and religiosity in the presented discourse and positions, arguing that despite significant religious complexities, both Judaism and Islam contain acceptable legal solutions, though their application is marginalized amid deteriorating national and security conditions. Therefore, ensuring an atmosphere of civic loyalty and national-personal security is crucial for utilizing existing religious tools to maximize integration potential.